Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Salt Lake City in the gorgeous state of Utah.
How long have you been practicing Bikram Yoga and what prompted you to take your first Bikram Yoga class?
I took my first Bikram yoga class in 2008 and was hooked immediately. The heat, the humidity, the detailed instruction, the specificity, the deep stretching, the focus, the concentration- all of these elements combined are what really made me love the class. And I couldn’t deny how incredible I felt after- detoxified, refreshed, completely renewed- I would leave class with a greater sense of confidence and deeper connection to myself and felt empowered to do better and be better. This is why I love Bikram Yoga.
Why did you become an instructor and what aspects of Bikram Yoga have had the greatest effect on you?
After I experienced such profound physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing, I knew that I too one day needed to pass onto the others the healing and benefits I received and this is why I became an instructor.
What do you like to do when you are not in the yoga room?
I love to spend time with friends and family. I absolutely love to travel and vacation and adventure and explore new parts of the world. I also love relaxation time. Mediation, a good book, a relaxing nap- anything that contributes to better self care! 🙂
What is your favorite pose in the Bikram series and why?
Whichever pose I am doing at the time! They all are such amazing postures for different reasons and synergistically combined together they create such a brilliant and magical series. I do really love the half moon series at the beggining of class and how it warms up the spine and sets you up for success in the class. I also love the challenge of standing head to knee, as well as the focus and deep concentration as well as strength and flexibility that is required in Standing Bow.
What advice would you give to any new student?
There is no greater time then now to start your yoga practice and no greater moment then the present to connect more deeply to yourself through yourself. Leave your judgements, criticisms, and self doubt at the door and come explore the incredible possibilities that await you on your yoga mat. Do what you can with what you have today and your self dedication and discipline will lead you to incredible new places. The only thing that’s required in the room is that you Breathe- everything else is optional. Trust yourself, and enjoy. See you on your mat!